American Idol returns tonight with a new format and a new diva panel in the house, Mariah Carey and Nicky Minaj. The biggest change is the audition process and how fans vote on their favorite singer. Here’s the latest American Idol news, rumors, predictions, and spoilers for season 12.

This season, American Idol fans were allowed to nominate family or friends too shy to audition for the show. Instead of them standing in a 24 hour queue, Randy Jackson arrived on their doorstep for an instant audition. I guess they captured some Publishers Clearing House type moments on camera. Also, instead of a top 12 there will only be a top 10.

What about Mariah Carey’s and Nicky Minaj’s feud is it manufactured or real? Popbytes had the opportunity to meet Mariah Carey in person and get a sneak peek of the show, he thinks it’s going to be the best season ever. He says the chemistry between the American Idol judges not only brings the drama but lots of laughs, making the show fun to watch like the Voice.

Astrologically speaking, Mariah Carey an Aries, considers herself the star of the show. She’s the leaders and she wants everyone else to follow. For Nicky Minaj, who’s a brutally honest Sagittarius girl and won’t be afraid to throwdown with Mariah.

For Keith Urban a Scorpio, he will be passionate about his judging choices and act as a referee between Mariah and Nicky. No doubt, getting really frustrated along the way. Astrologically speaking, Saturn in Scorpio will create some challenges for Keith and Nicole, busy careers can put a stress on family life.

For American Idol spoilers, we have the top 40 finalists listed here. Hmm, I think they may have another Phillip Phillips on their hands. Don’t forget to tune in tonight on Fox!

The judging panel this season is definitely what I’m looking forward to the most. I hope we get lots of crazy antics from Mariah and Nicki! I’m not going to be home to watch the premiere live because I’ll be working my shift at DISH. My DISH Hopper is all set up to record it for me, though. It’s nice not having to set any DVR timers for any of my favorite primetime shows anymore. Every night, the PrimeTime Anytime feature records everything on all four major networks during the primetime hours automatically. It makes my life so much easier.